How can we all be free and live together

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“How Can We All Be Free and Live Together”

Over the years, many theorists had attempted to find out the reasons for the existence of dictatorial states. Therefore, when Rousseau came up with his explanation of the phenomenon entitled “The Social Contract,” many scholars appreciated his work. Even the politician found the theory to be one of the best explanations and hence most of his quotes got adopted by the politicians and widely used in political rallies. Social contract stressed freedom through democracy but also indicated that “People cannot oppress themselves,” thus his philosophy though entailing significant phrases, it was considered unclear. One of the phrases that the philosopher used to mean that people have a shared interest considered in the contract was the “general will.” Because the general will was not practical, the philosopher preferred the “majority rule” over the “general rule.” Notably, the “majority rule” contradicted his previous beliefs on democracy since history exhibited that such a regime oppressed the minority groups.
Secondly, Rosseau’s social contract gives the state the authority to oversee how people live as well as the own property. Notably, a contract entails agreements between parties involved and the clear articulation of the rights and responsibilities of each party involved. Rosseau’s social contract does not contain the elements of a contract as described above. Therefore, questions have been raised regarding whether or not his philosophy is a real contract.

His “contract” is further made more complicated by the fact that it allows for the room for slavery and theft which according to the contract, seems legal and acceptable. According to the social contract, which is assumed to be voluntary, failure to enter into the social contract with the state warrants one an exile and seizure of his/her property. Even though the current political world still uses some values proposed by Rosseau’s social contract, it is important to note that unless these values are addressed, dictatorship will never come to an end.